Kenney marks its centennial year

Warwick, R.I. – Kenney Manufacturing Company celebrated its 100th anniversary at its window hardware factory here last week, officially unveiling a new logo in front of some 240 current employees, several retirees and other invited guests.

President and ceo Les Kenney, the fourth generation to run the operation, said: “This longevity is the result of the stable family environment we’ve managed to establish inside these four walls.”

The signature of Kenney’s father, the late Dick Kenney, has become the new logo. He was remembered during the anniversary ceremony for his one-on-one bond with employees, his strong customer relationships and his superb hand-writing.

Ginny Kenney, mother of the current president, talked about how the company adapted during World War II, when the raw materials necessary for the business were diverted to the war effort. “The company made wood boxes for ammunition and survival kits for the soldiers,” she said.

Sean White, vp of global manufacturing, noted that globalization has taken out many domestic mills. “As a family owned and operated manufacturer, Kenney stands tall a rare survivor,” he said. “Our portfolio of product is vast.”

The company also own production facilities in China, and serves accounts in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Central America.